Reviews

Read what our parents and students think about us

Below you will find reviews and testimonials from current and former True Balance Karate students and their parents in Downers Grove, IL.

We pride ourselves on being recognized as a Top Rated Martial Arts School by Go2Karate.com. We hope that your experience on our website is friendly and easy to use.

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Then don't forget to check out all of the other reviews and see what others saying about our community service, martial arts instructors, programs, and much more. We take pride in teaching a high quality martial arts, offering great customer service and in our online reputation.

Jordan Jones

We love TBK! Teaching more than just karate...respect, discipline, importance of community, charity. 100% recommend.

Vishak Seshadri

We started going to True Balance Karate since December 2023 and have so far enjoyed it. My daughters love it and are excited about it every time. I have also enjoyed being both a parent and a student here. The Masters are very patient with the kids and are able to manage different age groups and also kids with different energy levels and focus very well. The owners Master H and Master Helsdon do a great job keeping everybody excited and to parents, they explain why they do everything they do very well. We are excited to be part of the TBK Family!

Mike Veselka

My kid has gained so much more confidence in herself since she started here she loves it and can’t wait to keep continuing on to earn her black belt and beyond!!!

Jason Rossi

The instructors do a great job interacting with the younger students. Their lessons help with physical development as well as social emotional skills. TBK encourages students to apply what they learn in class to what they do outside of the studio. Everyone at TBK has been very welcoming and encouraging!

Dr Susanne Johnson

The staff are well-versed in helping students of all ages achieve the skill level the student desires. I have been especially impressed during the COVID-19 pandemic to observe them using remote learning tools to actively engage and provide real-time feedback to students training offsite.

Nathan Macht

I have recommended them to family, friends and will continue to do so. My son has improved in his discipline, self confidence and his help around our house. This is an amazing organization that is a community asset.

Susannah Go

We're new to TBK, and the onboarding experience has been A+++. We did a free 30 minute introductory class with a few other kids and Mister Felix, and it was great. My son got to break a board at the end, and he was so proud of himself. The kids needed some reminders to stay focused, and Mister Felix always gave kind and gentle corrections. It is hard to overstate how welcomed we have felt. At the intro class they had my son's name written on their welcome board, and we were immediately greeted by Miss Dawn who told us exactly what to do. By the end of the first "real" class, both owners Master Helsdon and Master H had introduced themselves to us and talked to us extensively about the program. Everyone has been happy to answer our questions (shoutout Miss Renee!), at no point were we confused or wondering what to do next. My son felt welcome too. Somehow everyone knows his name already, it is impressive! When the grown-ups talk with him, they always kneel down or even sit beside him. At his second lesson, there was a teacher he had never met before, and she came over to him, got down on one knee so she was on his level, shook his hand and introduced herself. Sometimes the adults just talk to other adults and ignore the kids; that is not the case here. They will treat your children like people and respect them. We are looking forward to our third lesson next week and so excited to be part of TBK!

Doctor Januszyk

We have been members of this studio for years, and during this weird year want to make sure that we acknowledge and renew our support for TBK. We have two children that attend, each with different needs and goals, and both have thrived under their care. It is obvious that they truly care about each child and their family; you are not just another number! Highly recommend!

Carol Avila

We joined the TBK Family 6 years ago and it has been an amazing experience for both our kids. The instructors are passionate at what they do and really focus on developing the whole person. What they teach goes way beyond just martial arts. We enrolled our kids at TBK to learn self-defense but they've learned so much more during their time at TBK. In addition to gaining martial arts skills and getting stronger physically, they've grown as individuals, built their confidence and learned leadership skills. TBK does a good job of balancing providing a fun atmosphere and serious approach to training. TBK is also a warm and welcoming community. Highly recommend!

Tonya Sandoval

This place teaches kids how to be more respectful and gives them confidence. Tonya Sandoval

Lou Stastny

“Nice place very friendly and they take great patience with their students.”

Kathleen Sierra

My kids love TBK! We’ve been going there for about 3 months. They love all the instructors and the classes are not just about karate, but being a decent person (e.g. helping with chores, listening to adults, taking care of others). Of course with the added benefit of getting to kick/punch things and burn off energy. Classes are really beautifully structured, but fluid so new kids can start anytime. Love them!